Former Stoke City manager Gary Rowett has admitted that criticising the club's supporters during his time in charge of the club was a huge mistake.

The 45-year-old, who was sacked by the Potters earlier this year following a poor run of results, was expected to secure an immediate return to the top-flight during the 2018/19 campaign.

However, following a poor start to the season which saw Stoke slump to 12th in the Championship standings, the pressure began to build on Rowett.

After drawing 0-0 against Bolton Wanderers last December, the former Burton Albion manager said that the Stoke fans were wrong to boo their side during the clash (via Sky Sports).

Unhappy with his comments, the club's supporters made their feeling known in the following defeat to Bristol City which was ultimately Rowett's final game in charge.

Speaking to the Official EFL Podcast about the breakdown in his relationship with Stoke's fans, Rowett said: "I made a big mistake.

"I went into a press conference after the [Bolton] game and was angry and frustrated.

"The press then asked me about why Bojan wasn't in the 18.

"But I wanted to talk about the players and the team and I got riled up and threw a comment in at that point.

"I look back it and see that it was a criticism of the fans and I learnt a big lesson that day as from there on it was very difficult to get that relationship back.

"If I could, I'd like to apologise to the fans because it wasn't meant as disrespect."

Rowett was later replaced by Nathan Jones who has struggled since taking over at Stoke.

With the Potters currently bottom of the Championship, the 46-year-old's days at the bet365 Stadium may be numbered.

The Verdict

Whilst it was arguably the right decision by Stoke to sack Rowett at the time, the fact that they have since spiralled since his departure clearly illustrates that something isn't right at the club.

Given just how poor they have been this season, the Potters may need to take a closer look at their players who are currently performing way below par.

Although it is too early to suggest that Stoke are in a relegation battle, it is imperative that they show signs of life during their upcoming clash with Brentford in the Championship.